Police send out warning of crime trend called "Apple picking"

Police send out warning of crime trend called "Apple picking"

Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- iPad thefts have become a big concern for police after several people were caught stealing them from local students.

Two teenagers were recently arrested for strong-arming some kids near Garside Middle School.

Before that, officers caught another group of teenagers stealing school-issued iPads from students near Fremont Middle School.

The iPad that 15-year-old Marcos Arenas was carrying when two men snatched it from him and then ran him over, was not issued by the school district.

Police are now shedding light on a growing crime trend called "Apple picking." They said they're seeing a spike in thefts of any device made by Apple.

Thursday's tragic loss of Marcos shows just how far thieves will go to get their hands on technology.

"There's a phenomenon called 'Apple picking.' Bottom line, these are thugs who are taking things from those who rightfully own them," said Metro Officer Bill Cassell.

Police said there are things you can do to keep your electronics safe.

First, when you're in public, do your best to conceal your pricey items. Also, register your items and keep serial numbers. You can download programs and apps that will track the devices if someone takes them from you.

If you're the victim of a crime, always report what happened to police.

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